First-timers to Melbourne would be suitably located in the CBD, the commercial heart of the city. Not only is it home to many of the city’s best galleries and museums, but it’s also home to many of its best malls, restaurants, and bars.
While the CBD guarantees a fun night out, Fitzroy is where the city truly comes alive at night. As well as cool eclectic bars, the area is known for its bold street art and unique boutiques which draw a youthful, hip crowd.
Melbourne’s hippest hangout, however, is the trendy Richmond located east of the CBD. Everything about Richmond is cool, from its hotels to its restaurants and brew pubs. Home to the Melbourne Cricket Ground, it’s also ideal for sports fans.
There are plenty of sleek and refined places to stay in Richmond, but there’s nowhere better for an upscale city stay than Docklands and Southbank. Situated across from each other on the Yarra River next to the CBD, these affluent neighbourhoods are popular for their shopping and waterside dining.
Budget travellers might prefer South Melbourne, a historic yet trendy neighbourhood between the Yarra River and Philips Bay. It’s quieter, more laid-back, and closer to the beach than any other city neighbourhood, making it ideal for families and beach-lovers too.
